Kettenbrücke, Pedestrian bridge in Bamberg, Germany
The Kettenbrücke is a pedestrian bridge crossing the right arm of the Regnitz River in central Bamberg, joining two streets on either bank. It measures approximately 73 meters long and 15 meters wide, with the current structure built in 2009 and 2010.
The first documented bridge at this location dates to 1312, though the original chain bridge, originally called Ludwigsbrücke, opened in 1829. This early construction became a model for chain bridges built elsewhere in Europe and beyond.
This bridge lies within the UNESCO World Heritage area of Bamberg Old Town and provides a direct link between two city districts. Its simple design fits naturally into the historic surroundings without overpowering the older buildings and narrow streets.
This bridge is open to pedestrians and connects the city center directly with surrounding streets on both sides. The walkway is level and wide enough for comfortable passage, even when several people cross at the same time.
This bridge inspired Johann August Röbling, the engineer who later designed the Brooklyn Bridge in New York using similar construction principles. This connection shows how a local Bamberg project had worldwide significance for bridge engineering.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.